Vince Wilfork vows to return from torn Achilles injury

Speaking for the first time since suffering his season-ending torn right Achilles tendon, Patriots defensive captain Vince Wilfork said earlier this evening he was progressing in his recovery and for anyone who doubts he won't make it back given the nature of the injury, not to mention his age, think again.

‘’I’ll be back. There’s no question in my mind. That’s not even a question,’’ said the massive 32-year year old nose tackle, who suffered the season-ending injury Week 4 against the Falcons. ‘’People can worry about it. But not me. I’ll be back.’’

Wilfork, who was at the Bass Pro Shop at Patriot Place earlier tonight as part of a holiday shopping event for children in need that was hosted by his foundation, along with the Patriots Charitable Foundation and Pats Alumni Club, said he was doing fine, making strides day-to-day, and expected to be out of his walking boot in a week. Naturally, he’s not a fan of having to watch the games from the sidelines.

‘’It’s always frustrating. The only thing I do, the only thing I know how to do is play football. And I can’t do it right now,’’ he said. ‘’But things happen for a reason. The only thing I can do is prepare each day and try and get better with the rehab, and that’s what I’ve been doing. Take it day by day and hopefully, I’ll get healthy soon.’’

Wilfork still taking part, watching film and helping whenever he can to help the team.

‘’Whatever they see fit for what I can do, that’s what I try to do to help. If it’s me coming around to see the guys, or having the guys talk with me, or if it’s watching film with the guys, that’s what I’ll do,’’ he said. ‘’I’m still part of (the team). Sometimes I feel like I’m not because I’m not out there with them, but I’ll stay a part of them. I want these guys to feel the same about me.’’

Big Vince and his teammates put smiles on the faces of quite a few kids, taking them shopping.

“Sometimes we lose sight of how blessed we really are. Until you come to an event like this, when you can put a smile on kid’s faces, it’s priceless. Every year I look forward to this time because I know kids look forward to this time. Every time we come here, we have a ball. That’ what it’s all about. Giving back, especially this time of year. We’ve done if for a long time. I thank my teammates and the Kraft foundation and everyone involved. We made a lot of kids happy today.’’


(bostonherald.com)